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Monday, 20 April 2015

Superfoods

Why are
they called Superfoods?

Foods
labeled “superfoods” are certainly high in some amazing antioxidants, vitamins
and minerals, compared to their counterparts, but the term is primarily used as
a marketing ploy to draw individuals to buy products and justify their high
expensive. For example, blueberries are marketed as superfoods for their high
antioxidant properties, specifically high vitamin C levels, but in fact 1 cup
of cooked (boiled) sweet potato has 42mg of vitamin C, compared to 14.4mg of
vitamin C in 1 cup of blueberries.

What
are the nutritional benefits of Superfoods?

Superfoods
are certainly beneficial for our body and when consumed assist us towards maintaining
a healthy lifestyle, benefits include:

Blueberries

High in
antioxidants particularly anthocyanins, and vitamins K and C, reducing risks of
cancer and cardiovascular disease

Kale

High in
antioxidants and Vitamins K, A and C, reducing risks of cancer and
cardiovascular disease

High in
polyphenols protective against cancer, and folate protective against birth
defects, heart disease and cancer

Flax
seeds

High in
fibre and essential fatty acids, promoting cardiovascular health

Chia
Seeds

High in
fibre and protein, promoting bowel health, satiety, and weight loss

Next
time you see the term superfood down the shopping aisle, take a moment to
justify your choice. Focus on consuming fresh organic produce filled with colourfull
fruits and vegetables and whole grains, aimed at increasing your antioxidant
intake, reducing risks of disease.